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On 3 October 2012, the Public Health Authority of Portugal reported two cases of dengue virus infection in residents of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, Portugal. Neither case gave a history of recent travel abroad. The cases are thought to be locally acquired (autochthonous) and epidemiological investigations are ongoing to confirm if this is the case. If confirmed, this will be the first time that locally acquired dengue fever has been identified in Madeira. Further suspected cases are under investigation by the local authorities and have been reported by the media.
A local response has been activated by the Health Services of Madeira, including epidemiological investigation, laboratory diagnosis, health care services response and dissemination of information regarding individual protection against mosquito bites. ECDC, in collaboration with the public health authorities in Portugal, is preparing a Rapid Risk Assessment.
(Via ECDC - accessed 10/10/12)
Advice for Travellers
The main vector of dengue virus is the Aedes aegypti mosquito and it has been present on the island of Madeira since 2004. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are not present on the mainland of Portugal which lies 1000 km from the island of Madeira.
Travellers should be made aware of the very low risk of dengue fever in Madeira. Travellers should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites at all times as the Aedes aegypti is a day-biting mosquito.
Travellers returning from Madeira who develop symptoms of dengue fever including fever, headache, joint and muscle pain or rash with 14 days of leaving the island, should contact their GP immediately.
Further information on mosquito bite avoidance measures is available for travellers via the TRAVAX Suitcase.
